Kejriwal writes to PM for release of Indian hostages

NEW DELHI: Expressing deep concern over the plight of 17 Indian crew members of MT Royal Grace who have been held hostage by Somali pirates since March 2, Aam Aadmi Party national convener Arvind Kejriwal has written to the PM to resolve the issue soon. Kejriwal also asked the government to reinforce naval presence in the Indian Ocean.

"It is regrettable that even after nine months, the government has not taken any steps that could resolve the situation or even offer some ray of hope. The family members of these unfortunate victims have been left with no option but to stage dharna before various ministries in the capital. They cannot but conclude that this indifferent treatment has been meted out to them because they are just aam aadmi,'' Kejriwal said in his letter.

He added that this was not an isolated incident and Somali pirates had repeatedly attacked seafarers. "Nearly 150 hostages, Indians disproportionately more than the rest, are still languishing in the captivity of the pirates,'' he said. The party has demanded the government take remedial measures.